Smith Center is 0-3 against Republic County since January of 2021 but they'll have a chance to close the gap a little bit on Thursday. The Smith Center Redmen will be playing at home against the Republic County Buffaloes at 7:00 p.m. Given that both teams suffered a loss in their last game, they both have a little extra motivation heading into this game.
Last Tuesday, Smith Center was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap as they fell 51-45 to Hill City. The defeat unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Smith Center in their matchups with Hill City: they've now lost five in a row.
Despite their loss, Smith Center saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Daveyon Orr, who scored nine points, was perhaps the best of all. The team also got some help courtesy of Brant Wilson, who scored 13 points along with eight rebounds.
Meanwhile, Republic County's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Saturday after their eighth straight loss. Their tough 58-35 defeat to Riley County might stick with them for a while. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest loss Republic County has suffered yet this season.
Smith Center dropped their record down to 3-8 with that loss, which was their 12th straight on the road. As for Republic County, their loss dropped their record down to 1-9.
Smith Center came up short against Republic County when the teams last played back in January of 2023, falling 52-47. Will Smith Center have more luck at home instead of on the road? Come back here after the game to get analysis of the match and other basketball content.